Is Hajjaj ibn Yusuf al-Thaqafi a disbeliever?

Al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf al-Thaqafi had both flaws and virtues. He was a Nasibi (one who harbors hatred for Ali and his followers), and a tyrant who shed blood on the slightest suspicion. However, he was religiously observant in refraining from intoxicants, frequently recited the Quran, avoided forbidden acts, and was keen on jihad and the conquest of lands.

The Salaf (early Muslims) differed concerning his excommunication (takfir). Some, like Ibn Mujahid and Al-Sha'bi, declared him a disbeliever. Others, like Abu Wa'il and Sufyan al-Thawri, refrained from judgment and did not bear witness that he was destined for Hellfire.

The preponderant opinion is to refrain from declaring him a disbeliever, because the reports of his disbelieving statements might be fabrications. Furthermore, a person whose Islam is established with certainty can only be stripped of it by a certainty of equal measure. It is not permissible to judge anyone as destined for Paradise or Hellfire, except for those about whom Allah and His Messenger have testified.

No evidence has been found to prove that he commanded people to say, "I am a disbeliever," or that he slandered the Prophet Solomon. Among his most prominent virtues were his dedication to the Quran, jihad, and conquests. He killed many righteous individuals, not only Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr, but also the great Tabi'i (successor) Sa'id ibn Jubayr.